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HS FOOTBALL: Oaks Christian defeats Upland 57-28

Yes, Oaks Christian defeated Upland 57-28 on Saturday, but in some ways Upland is OK with it because the Honor Bowl showdown at Oceanside High was a matchup between programs with different trajectories and different plans.

After a surprising loss in the first round of the playoffs last season, Oaks Christian (2-0), boosted by the return of standout quarterback Brandon Dawkins, is out to re-affirm its dominance, a team that had won seven titles in 12 seasons before a stutter-step a year ago in coach Jeff Woodruff’s first season.

“We’re putting a lot of points on the scoreboard,” said Oaks Christian receiver Chris Davis, who had 11 receptions for 133 yards including a 19-yard touchdown.

Upland, young and filled with new transfers – some eligible, some still waiting — is looking for that extra something, that cherry-on-top advantage after falling in the section semifinals in each of the past two seasons. In other words, the Highlanders, coming off an opening loss to Mater Dei (like Oaks Christian, a favored opponent), knew there would be days like this.

“We scheduled these games because the coaches knew we have a tough league, and ultimately, this gets us ready for the playoffs,” Upland quarterback Tyler Hilinski said. “We’re trying to get over the hump.”

Coming off a 390-yard passing performance in the opener, Dawkins completed 21 of 29 for 319 yards and three touchdowns, and D.J. Riggins scored four touchdowns.

“Brandon is playing well, and we didn’t have any turnovers,” Davis said.

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